The online grocer stated that the removal of compostable plastic is “immediately effective,” and urged other shops to avoid using the material if there is question about how it degrades. It is collaborating with suppliers to eliminate all biodegradable plastic from their product by the end of 2023.
Abel and Cole cited University College London study. According to the study, biodegradable plastic only breaks down under specified conditions, and this is “not happening correctly and consistently, across local authority facilities or in home compost heaps.”
“Until recently, we thought compostable plastic ended up as compost,” said Hugo Lynch, sustainability project manager at Abel & Cole.
“That is why we have decided to eliminate compostable plastic from our core fruit and vegetable Boxes.” And we’re working hard with all of our suppliers to phase it out entirely by the end of 2023.
“However, we can’t solve the problem of biodegradable plastic pollution on our own.” We are also inviting food industry decision-makers to join us.”
Abel & Cole also announced plans to expand its Club Zero refillables line and start the ‘Plastic Pick-Up Scheme,’ which will collect flexible plastics from consumers’ doorsteps.